What You Should Know About Eco Friendly & Nontoxic Paints

Paints with little or no volatile organic compounds are known as eco-friendly or non-toxic paints. Harmful and toxic chemicals in paint that is released into the atmosphere once the paint is used is what is referred to as volatile organic compounds popularly referred to as VOC. These toxic chemical compounds can stay in the atmosphere for so many years and thus causing harm not just to the user and people around but also to the environment. Cancer and respiratory problems like asthma are some ailments known to be caused by the harmful chemicals (VOC) that can be found in paints. Homeowners, interior designers as well as professional painters must know what constitutes VOC free paint before setting out purchase any brand.

Natural paints and finishes are not just eco-friendly but also non-toxic since they are made from natural materials such as essential oils, water, milk casein, beeswax, plant dyes, plant oils, natural latex as well as resins among others. These kinds of paints also have no smell or just a little if any. It is always important to read the paint’s label in order to determine its ingredients which can tell whether they are natural or not. Nontoxic paints being safe, they are perfect for those with sensitive skin and allergies.

Zero VOC paints have five grams of this harmful ingredient or less. Though this still contains some level of toxins, the quality of the paints is higher than that of traditional paints. With quality paints, one does not need to repaint their surfaces frequently. They come in various tints that are also supposed to be free from VOC. These kinds of paints also dry very fast.

Low VOC varnishes,stains and paints do not use petroleum as a solvent but water; due to this fact, the level of emissions from this kind of paint is very low. Heavy metals and formaldehyde are either not found in low VOC paints or present in low quantities. They have a smell which fades when the paint dries out. Before purchasing paint, one should check out its VOC level on the side of the paint container. With a 25-45% pigment concentration, one should go for higher percentages which usually contain less VOC. Therefore, it is important to check out the solid pigment concentration in the paint before purchasing it.